Lec 2_Sociological Theories

8/10/2019 Lec 2_Sociological Theories

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Set of statements that seeks toexplain problems, actions orbehavior

Theories are not final statementsabout human behaviorEffective theories haveexplanatory and predictive

power


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Dualism and Dichotomy: 1. Conflict vs Consensus2. Agency vs Structures3. Subjectivism vs Objectivism

Middle ground:

- Agency-structureintegration- Macro-micro sociology


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Functionalist perspective

Conflict perspective

Interactionist perspective


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Emphasizes the way parts of a societyare structured to maintain its stability

Talcott Parsons (1902 1972) Viewed society as vast

network of connected parts Each helps maintain

the system as a whole


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Manifest functions : Institutions are open,stated, conscious functions thatinvolve intended and recognized

consequences of an aspect of society Latent functions : Unconscious orunintended functions that may reflecthidden purposes of an institution

Dysfunctions : Elements or processesof society that may disrupt asocial system or reduce its stability


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Assumes social behavior bestunderstood in terms of conflict or tensionbetween competing groups

The Marxist view : Conflict is partof everyday life in all societies Conflict theorists are interested in how

institutions may help maintain privilegesof some groups and keep otherssubservient


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The Feminist view Sees inequality in gender as

central to all behavior and organization Often allied with conflict theory Proponents tend to focus on macro level

Broadened social behavior by extendinganalysis beyond male point of view


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Generalizes about everyday forms ofsocial interaction to explain societyas a whole

Humans viewed as living in a world ofmeaningful objects

Nonverbal communication : Includesgestures, facial expressions, and postures


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George Herbert Mead(1863 1931)

Regarded as founder ofinteractionist perspective

Erving Goffman (1922 1982) Dramaturgical approach :

People seen as theatricalperformers


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Gain broadest understanding ofsociety by drawing on all major

perspectives , noting where theyoverlap or diverge Each perspective offers unique

insights into the same issue

Researchers work always guidedby his or her theoretical viewpoint


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Theory in Practice

Research Today Thinking Globally

Globalization : Worldwide integration ofgovernment policies, cultures, socialmovements, and financial marketsthrough trade and the exchange ofideas

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Lec 2_Sociological Theories